Camp in a yurt, Pigeon Lake
Add a new twist to camping this year by spending a couple nights in a yurt. The yurt, as it is known in Turkey, or the ger, as it is known in Mongolia, is a comfortable round and roomy tent. They were used by nomadic tribes but have become popular as permanent tents for interested tourists around the world. The yurts at Pigeon Lake provide a glamping experience complete with accessibility for strollers and wheelchairs, proximity to washroom facilities, a fridge, BBQ, and electric heaters. You’ll have to bring some items and pets are not allowed, but when it comes to camping, this is an experience you won’t soon forget!
Enjoy the view from the Sky Bistro, Banff
Elevate your dining experience by taking the gondola to the top of the mountain and sitting down to enjoy a meal with an incredible view. The Sky Bistro is Banff’s Number 1 restaurant (TripAdvisor) and has also been recognized by Travellers’ Choice Awards, Cochon555, and OpenTable®. Seasonal local ingredients are on the menu, along with a fantastic selection of cocktails, wine and beer.
See the (real) stars, Edmonton
It could be your lucky night. When the RASC Observatory is open, you get to see the stars, planets, and other celestial bodies. Depending on COVID restrictions, and on temperature and cloudiness, the RASC Observatory opens for free to the public so you can take a peek through its powerful telescopes. Call Telus World of Science at 780-451-3344 during business hours to confirm, or call the observatory directly at 780-452-9100 (ext. 2249) during evening hours to see if it’s open that night (no answer means no viewing available).
Visit the “Wild West,” Calgary
Home on the Range Adventure Tours organizes information and tours about a variety of adventures in the area, including ranch vacations, self-drive excursions, motorhome rentals, cattle drives, rail tours, and more. Options are included for solo travelers, groups, families, and corporate events. The company’s owners are seasoned travellers themselves, and they know that personal service and attention to detail are important to planning a truly memorable adventure.
Visit a large trout in a tiny hamlet, Chin
Chin is a hamlet in Alberta. The 2016 Census showed a population of just 62. However, that doesn’t stop this small place from having a big roadside attraction. To help advertise a nearby trout farm, the Chin statue is a 16 foot trout. Let this big fish inspire you to have another adventure – fishing in Chin’s lakes. Not only can you catch trout, the lakes are known for pike and walleye too.
Nerissa McNaughton is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for the Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.